I’m sticking with the thought that spring is just around the corner, even though snow (yes snow!) has been forecast here for tomorrow.  Can you believe it?!!  If you’re in need of some summertime inspiration, Scandinavian-inspired online boutique, Nordic House is sure to get you in the mood. I’m dreaming of long, relaxing summer evenings sat in the garden with friends and these beautiful garden accessories would make it all the more pleasurable…

Stainless steel and leather lanterns, from £49.95

Tall glass bowl/ vase, from £30

Large bark candle. £29.95

Retro duck egg pattern cushion, only £7.17

You can really tell that owner Sandie and the team have put their heart into this little gem of a boutique. Most of the products are limited editions or seasonal collections, so if you set your eyes on something, I’d suggest you hurry and get it, as it might not be there next month!

As the name suggests, the style is mostly Scandinavian, see lots of white and natural colours (indeed most of the items are sourced from there) and the lifestyle photography is super inspiring  – so light and airy – I can just imagine all these lovely pieces in my own home…

P.S. Nordic House are kindly giving away two fabulous lanterns from their 2011 spring collection to one lucky reader. Check out the competition below!

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Well summer’s nearly over and to be honest I never much noticed it had arrived!  But let’s make the most of the last few weeks by using the garden to its full potential.  Whether you have a lawn the size of a postage stamp or acres of grass outside, with a bit of careful planning and clever design we can all have a peaceful haven outdoors…

I can’t stress enough how lighting can make such a difference in your garden.  From candles to string lights… get some now!

Throws are a garden necessity in the UK with our ever-changing weather!!

‘Think outside the box’ and use colourful jugs (above) for displaying freshly cut flowers

Rattan furniture and accessories are perfect for outdoor use and looks rather stylish too! 

A colourful cushion will brighten-up even the smallest of spaces and won’t break the bank

All items can be purchased from Burford online.

posted by Emily

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What better way to finish a meal than with a delightful dessert made with delicious summer fruits?  You needn’t be a pro in the kitchen though, as these simple recipes below show.  Have a go and ‘wow’ your friends!  The lovely colours just add to the temptation…

Summer Fruit Kuchen

Fruit Sundae 

Orange rice pudding

Ginger-peach ice cream pie

Images and recipes via womansday.com

posted by Emily

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Summer is the time to dare to go bright- both inside and outside the home.  Drape colourful throws over furniture, dig out those summer cushions and have beautiful displays of flowers dotted around your home.  It’s sure to put you in the mood for summer, even if the British weather doesn’t!

 I’m sure I could lay here for hours, listening to the gentle ripples of the water…

We’ve just placed fresh flowers in all of our rooms and it really makes a difference to the mood!  I love the bright colours… perfect for cheering you up on a rainy day.  Why not think of new ways to display your bunch, such as in a watering can (above), colourful tin bucket (below) or milk jug?

Beautiful, bright summer fabrics look fantastic draped over white furniture

images via decorativecountryliving.com and Country Living magazine

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I love this time of year- being able to sit outside in the garden of an evening with a relaxing glass of chilled wine.  Long summer days are lush, so make the most of the good weather and invite friends and family round for a barbeque!  I’m not just talking plain-old burgers and sausages though… it’s time to experiment and impress your friends.  I’ve picked some starting points for you, below, which I’m sure you’ll agree look delicious!  Let us know if you have a barbeque recipe you’d like to share?…

spiced mushroom ‘burger’, Channel 4 Recipes 

Thai fish cake skewers, Channel 4 Recipes 

beetroot, red apple and watercress salad, Jamie Oliver

marinated halloumi cheese kebabs, Delia Smith

posted by Emily

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